Ecmweb 4867 308ecm15pic1
Ecmweb 4867 308ecm15pic1
Ecmweb 4867 308ecm15pic1
Ecmweb 4867 308ecm15pic1
Ecmweb 4867 308ecm15pic1

What's Wrong Here?

Aug. 1, 2003
Hint: This extension cord (upper left) is used in the summer for a fan to keep this building cool.

How well do you know the Code? Think you can spot violations the original installer either ignored or couldn't identify? Here's your chance to moonlight as an electrical inspector and second-guess someone else's work from the safety of your living room or office. Joe Tedesco, who has a knack for finding shoddy electrical work, did the dirty work and found this mess. Now it's your turn to identify the violation.

Find the Answer

The following individuals correctly identified the Code violations shown in the August column: Leon Sokhis, electrical engineer, Solar Turbines, Inc., San Diego; Richard Sullivan, junior engineer, Kinsman & Associates, Richardson, Texas; and John Reichardt, electrical designer, Vanderweil Engineers, Alexandria, Va. This extension cord can't be used in any Class I, Division 1 or 2 hazardous (classified) location. Although 501.4(D)(2) permits flexible connections at motor terminals, only flexible explosionproof type fittings that are listed for Class I, Division 1 hazardous (classified) locations, or flexible cord in accordance with the provisions of 501.11 are permitted. These rules don't cover extension cords. See the definition for “Explosionproof Apparatus” in Art. 100 and 500.2 for specific guidance related to electrical equipment installed in hazardous locations.

The installation also violates the requirements of 501.13, which states, “Where condensed vapors or liquids may collect on, or come in contact with, the insulation on conductors, such insulation shall be of a type identified for use under such conditions; or the insulation shall be protected by a sheath of lead or by other approved means.”

About the Author

Joe Tedesco

Tedesco served the industry in many roles during his career. He was a director, senior electrical code instructor for National Technology Transfer, Inc. and American Trainco, Inc.. He was also a codes, standards and seminar specialist for the International Association of Electrical Inspectors and an electrical field service specialist for the National Fire Protection Association in Quincy, Mass. He ran his own business as an NEC consultant and is a Massachusetts licensed master electrician and journeyman electrician and certified electrical inspector (one and two family 2A; General 2B, and Plan Review, 2C). Tedesco also wrote articles for CEE News and EC&M (Code Violations Illustrated and What's Wrong Here?) for more than 15 years and helped launched the Moving Violations video series.

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